D Limonene, a natural citric oil concentrate, is proving to be effective in the treatment of GERD.

GERD is a condition where the acids of the stomach flow upward into the esophagus causing pain and burning. Over time this condition can also predispose one to a variety of different types of cancer and Barrett’s syndrome.

D-Limonene is made from orange peel extract, also known as citrine, and is nontoxic. In dosages of 1000mg taken every other day for 20 days it has been shown to prevent GERD for up to 6 months. Some people have found that 1000mg taken once a month is helpful to keep GERD under control.

Before studies were done by Joe Wilkins there was overwhelming antidotal evidence that many people who use d limonene for GERD symptoms receive excellent results with minimal dosages. Since the conventional therapy of proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec and Nexium are dangerous, interferes with proper digestion and nutrient assimilation and radically decreases the natural and safe levels of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, d limonene could be trialed by anyone who has acid reflux disease. This product has been classified as GRAS (generally regarded as safe). There are antidotal indications that it may also be effective against h-pylori bacteria in the stomach so if you have had recurrent issues with h-pylori it may be a supplemental therapy to keep it in check.

Contrary to conventional medical viewpoints, acid reflux disease is caused by too little acid in the stomach. When there is too little acid bloating and gas in the stomach force stomach contents up through the esophageal sphincter at the end of the esophagus. The naturopathic position is that a decrease in acid is caused by damage to the lining of the stomach, most likely from invasion of pathogens like h-pylori or other yet unidentified microbes. Direct damage to the esophageal sphincter can also lead to reflux disease.

D limonene has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. It may be helpful in the prevention of esophageal and stomach cancer, as well as other cancers and could be considered with those who have been diagnosed with Barrett’s syndrome as a preventative to forming cancer. It has demonstrated to have a positive effect against some squamous cell cancers and possibly adenocarcinomas associated with esophageal cancers.